Water-wise approaches to gardening and public parks reduce the demand on limited water supplies, but also serve to improve the appearance and environmental impact of public spaces. Water-wise landscaping is commonly called xeriscaping, which means “dry gardening”. It encourages the use of native and acclimatized plants combined with a series of water-saving planting and maintenance techniques. The result is beautiful flowering gardens that simply use less water and are healthier for the environment. This approach is becoming increasingly popular worldwide, especially in other arid and semi-arid climates, and is reminiscent of traditional Cypriot practices.  SAVE published a guide, titled “How Does Your Garden Grown in Cyprus:  A Simple Guide to Water-Wise Landscaping for Beautiful Gardens”, which demonstrates how to save water while maintaining a lush, beautiful garden even in the face of Cyprus’ high temperatures and water shortages. 
SAVE has developed three model “Eco-Parks” and a demonstration garden using only xeriscape techniques adapted specifically to Cyprus’ climate and indigenous plant species.

• Desdemona Park, Famagusta – an existing park in the heart of the walled city which was transformed into an Eco-Park using xeriscape approaches.
• Alsancak/Karavas Eco-Park was created by SAVE and developed by the winner of a public xeriscape design competition.  It generated significant support from the community and local business leaders including donations of equipment and materials. The park features xeriscape landscaping, solar power and efficient irrigation techniques and is complete with playground equipment and benches.
• Lapta/Lapithos Community Eco-Park features xeriscape landscaping, a dry zone area requiring no irrigation, and efficient irrigation techniques used in the rest of the park. It is complete with a football field for youngsters, benches and playground equipment.
• Traditional Olive Mill Xeriscape Garden, Buyukkonuk/Komi Kebir